Singapore is a place that can divide opinions – some love it, some not so much. It’s a super modern, super clean, and super well-planned city, unlike many other bustling and chaotic Asian capitals. While some travelers feel it lacks a bit of character, if you approach it differently, you might find it surprisingly fascinating and, most importantly, super easy to navigate.
I’ve been to Singapore a few times myself, sometimes just for a quick stopover and once for a longer stay to explore more. If you’re thinking about visiting Singapore, here are some things to consider:
Singapore might not be your top pick if you’re on a short trip in Asia. Many people use it as a layover spot because of its great airport and central location in Asia. But if you’re heading to a place like Bali for a longer stay, you might want to skip Singapore and spend all your time in Bali instead.
If you’re looking for the chaos and energy of a place like Bangkok, Singapore might not be your cup of tea. It’s super organized and safe, which can be a breath of fresh air or a bit dull, depending on what you like. Singapore has its own charm, different from other Southeast Asian cities, which we’ll talk about later.
Singapore can be pricey, so if you’re on a tight budget, you might find it a bit tough. You can still manage on a smaller budget by staying in budget-friendly hostels and eating cheaply, but you might miss out on some experiences.
If you’re into wild and crazy nightlife, Singapore might not be the best fit. It’s more about sipping cocktails than partying all night, thanks to high alcohol taxes. But there’s still a nightlife scene to explore, like Clarke Quay, where you can have some fun.
On the other hand, Singapore is a great place to start your Asia trip. It’s safe, easy to get around, and most people speak English. Plus, the food scene is amazing, with hawker centers offering a variety of affordable dishes from all over Asia.
If you appreciate futuristic urban design and green spaces, Singapore won’t disappoint. Despite being densely populated, it has some stunning architecture and beautiful parks like Gardens by the Bay. It’s impressive how they’ve maximized space in such a crowded city.
While you can enjoy Singapore on a budget, it’s a different experience when you can splurge a bit. If you’re into luxury hotels and fine dining, Singapore is a dream come true.
For family-friendly entertainment and leisure activities, Singapore has a lot to offer, from the zoo to Universal Studios. It’s a great place for a layover, especially with Changi Airport being so top-notch.
In my opinion, Singapore is definitely worth a visit if you’re open to its unique charm. It’s not like other Southeast Asian cities, but that’s what makes it special. Whether you’re into food, architecture, or just exploring a different side of Asia, spending a couple of days in Singapore can be a rewarding experience.
